James eyes third time lucky

David James is hoping it is a case of third time lucky for him today, as he prepares for the FA Cup Final with Portsmouth against Cardiff City this afternoon. James has called on his team mates to deliver a good performance.

James lost in the FA Cup Final twice before, firstly with Liverpool in 1996 who were defeated by Manchester United, and secondly with Aston Villa who were beaten by Chelsea in 2000.

"I've been here twice before, with Liverpool in 1996 and with Aston Villa in 2000," James recalled in The Sun.

"On both occasions the build-up was great but the performance was sub-standard. People tell me it's third time lucky but I don't believe in luck.

"In my two previous cup finals we didn't play well enough and deserved to lose. It was so frustrating.

"I'd like to think the final will be a fantastic spectacle but I'll settle for another one-goal win.

"If we do, then a very good season ends up being a tremendous one."